FIFA World Cup 2026 - Biggest takeaways from the quarterfinals

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is in its last stretch.

The quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 have concluded. Only four teams remain in the summer competition. Two quarterfinal games went into extra time.

The sides that advanced to the last four will now face each other in the semifinals. However, the game is expected to last more than 90 minutes. Apart from the game between Argentina and England, the other semifinal, scheduled between Spain and France, could go to extra time or even penalties.

Before we get into the dynamics of the upcoming clashes, let’s take a look at the biggest takeaways from the quarterfinals.

1. France 2-0 Morocco

France have been one of the most complete teams in the FIFA World Cup. They have scored 16 goals in six matches of the tournament. Their attack, including Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola, and Desire Doue, has been functioning super well.

They faced a striker-less Morocco lineup as Mohamed Ouahbi wanted to play out a defensive masterclass. However, the Atlas Lions failed to keep Les Bleus from scoring for more than an hour. This would make it difficult for Spain to stop the top forwards from scoring.

2. Spain 2-1 Belgium

Pau Cubarsi should be weighed in the debate for the best young players in world football. His long-range shot eventually led to Mikel Merino’s winner for La Roja in the quarterfinal against Belgium. His partnership alongside former Manchester City and Al-Nassr defender Aymeric Laporte has been brilliant for Spain.

While La Roja struggle to score goals, their defence has performed solidly. Unai Simón also holds the World Cup record for the most consecutive minutes without conceding a goal. He has conceded only one goal, and it came during Spain’s last game in the summer tournament.

Also Read: France vs Spain Preview – Prediction, team news, lineups | FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Final

3. England 2-1 Norway

England were helped indirectly as Orjan Haskjold Nyland’s goal kick did hit the TV camera cable. Although Harry Kane was stopped from scoring, Jude Bellingham later stepped up and netted two goals against Norway. It has been discussed whether the Three Lions have secured a lucky win.

Thomas Tuchel’s men have found their way out with experience. Now, the Three Lions actually need Kane and Bellingham to score. England have scored 13 goals in the tournament yet, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham having contributed six goals each.

4. Argentina 3-1 Switzerland

Argentina were tested to the limit by Switzerland. The defending champions’ frustration was evident. Additionally, in the last few days, La Albiceleste have played more than 300 minutes of football across their last three knockout-stage games.

However, one good thing that Lionel Scaloni’s side can look forward to is that they don’t need Lionel Messi to score or break the deadlock. Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister was one of the top performers. But, again, his involvement in the next game will depend on his recovery.

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